Explore the Ten Best Beaches on Chios, Greece’s Island of a Thousand Faces

Surrounded by the sparkling, deep sapphire waters of the Aegean Sea, Chios is the fifth-largest island in Greece, and it is a hidden gem waiting to be unveiled. Together with the smaller islands Psara and Oinousses, it offers almost endless experiences and stunning vistas, and it is hospitable all year long.

Chios is famous for its mastic, a gum resin from a tree related to the cashew tree. But this magical flavoring from nature is not the only magic one can find on this magnificent, mountainous island.

The island boasts some of the best organized beaches you will find anywhere, as well as secluded coves for those who treasure their privacy. Whether you like deserted coves, long white or gold sandy beaches, or black and colorful pebbled beaches, Chios is a feast for visitors which can satisfy a wide range of even the most demanding tastes.

You will undoubtedly feel as if you are on a different island every day while visiting Chios.

We have compiled a list of the top ten beaches on Chios, according to TripAdvisor, the well-respected travel and restaurant company. But feel free to visit and judge for yourself which is the most spectacular.

Mavros Gialos (Mavra Volia)

Mavros Gialos, Chios. Source: Chios.gr Facebook

Mavros Gialos (“Black Beach”) is found on the southern part of the island, at a distance of 28 km (17 miles) west of Chios Town. The beach acquired its iconic black pebbles and sand thanks to an eruption of a volcano, which is now extinct.

There are no tourist facilities there but it is rarely crowded, and it is surrounded by greenery and rocky hills, which provide a backdrop of relaxing scenery as you swim.

2. Agia Dinami Beach

Agia Dinami beach. Source: Agia Dinami Olimpoi – Chios Facebook

Agia Dinami Beach also lies in southern Chios, and it mesmerizes visitors with its turquoise waters and white sands, offering tranquility and relaxation. While you are there, you can visit the imposing Olympoi Cave. Guided tours of the cave are available from early May till late September.

It is advisable to bring along food and water, since there are no restaurants available close to the beach.

3. Vroulidia Beach

Vroulidia Beach, Chios. Source: Wikipedia

Vroulidia Beach is located 35 km (22 miles) southwest of Chios Town, and it is also close to the aforementioned Mavros Gialos (“Mavra Volia”) beach. Since Vroulidia lies on the very southernmost edge of the island, it is quite secluded.

Its crystal clear waters and its pink sands are a true delight, giving a paradisiacal and exotic look to the whole area.

4. Komi Beach

Komi Beach, Chios. Source: Wikipedia

Komi Beach is located on the southeast part of Chios, and just thirty minutes from the town. It is among the loveliest beaches of the island, with expansive sands and facilities such as deck chairs and umbrellas, and it is suitable for beach games.

The area has many taverns, hotels, rooms to let, apartments and bars. It is also possible to rent bikes, canoes and equipment for water sports there.

5. Karfas Beach

Karfas Beach, Chios. Source: karfas.gr

Karfas Beach is located 5 km (3 miles) south of the island’s main town, in front of the seaside village. The beach there offers clean waters, fine sand and facilities such as umbrellas, sun beds, and water sports equipment for rent.

The area is surrounded by hotels, rooms to let, restaurants, cafes, bars, and nightclubs. It is the largest tourist resort of the island, with many holidaymakers visiting every summer.

6. Agia Fotini Beach

Agia Fotini Beach. Source: Wikipedia

A beautiful coastal village, Agia Fotini is 15 km (9 miles) south of Chios Town. Situated next to a bay with a pebbled shore and crystalline waters, it is one of the most beautiful beaches of the island. The natural green landscape which surrounds it offers leisure and relaxation.

The beach is partly organized, with sundecks and umbrellas. You will also find tavernas and all types of accommodations there.

7. Limnos Beach

Limnos Beach. Source: Wikipedia

Limnos Beach can be found 42 km (926 miles) northwest of Chios Town, close to Volissos, an ancient village. It is sandy with small gleaming pebbles and deep crystal waters. It is surrounded by a steep cliff and tall pine trees, forming a peaceful environment away from the noise of the bustling town.

The beach is in its original, natural state and has no umbrellas, but the area does have hotels, apartments, and two fish taverns with splendid sea views.

8. Agia Irini Beach

Agia Irini Beach. Source: Wikipedia

Agia Irini Beach lies on the southwestern coast of Chios, 30 km (19 miles) southwest of the island’s main town. This is a secluded and sheltered bay with no facilities of any kind. It is distinguished by its small white pebbles and the crystalline waters which offer a peaceful environment for swimming and sunbathing.

Agia Irini is found between the medieval villages of Mesta and Elata, providing the visitors with great opportunities for sightseeing.

9. Lithi Beach

Lithi Beach. Source: Wikipedia

The lovely beach of Lithi is found in a cove, west of Chios Town, on the western coast of the island. It offers mirror-like waters and soft, golden sand.

The small seaside village behind the beach is popular for its excellent fresh fish and seafood, brought in on a daily basis by local fishermen. Lastly, Lithi offers sunrises which are magical and truly unforgettable.

10. Giosonas Beach

Giosonas Beach. Source: Wikipedia

Giosonas Beach is located on the northeast of the island of Chios, just 5 kilometers (3 miles) away from Kardamyla village. This is a huge crescent beach with beautiful natural surroundings, and smooth white pebbles, and its turquoise waters are cold and crystal clear. It is an ideal destination for families and people who prefer privacy and a natural environment for swimming and sunbathing.